Variations in attitudes toward working with robots and concerns about robots replacing jobs among Midwesterners

This study examines how social and worldview factors influence public attitudes toward workplace robotics in Nebraska, a major U.S. meat-producing state where automation adoption remains comparatively slow. Using data from the 2020 Nebraska Annual Social Indicators Survey (n = 2,213), we analyzed two core outcomes: willingness to work with robots (“robot happy”) and concern about job replacement (“robot concern”). Ordinary least-squares regression models revealed that women, older adults, and those with less education were less positive about working with robots, while respondents with more education, higher financial security, stronger trust in science, and liberal political orientations expressed greater acceptance. Education and financial stability were also associated with reduced concern about being replaced by robots, whereas worldview factors such as religiosity showed weaker effects. Overall, most respondents were neither enthusiastic about robot assistance nor highly worried about job loss. These findings highlight a need for inclusive communication and training strategies that acknowledge demographic and ideological differences as the United States transitions toward more automated work environments.